By Shafii Sani Mohammed
The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has dismissed reports suggesting that preparations for the 2026 Hajj are being delayed due to unresolved issues with the 2025 operational accounts.
The Commission confirmed this through Deputy Director of Finance and Accounts, Alhaji Rabiu Na’Allah, who stressed that NAHCON has settled all matters relating to pilgrims’ refunds from the 2025 Hajj on Wednesday 10th September 2025 had been fully reconciled.
According to him, 19 States that requested reconciliation of pilgrims’ Hajj fare refunds have been duly settled. He added that refunds from previous years have also been cleared, except in cases where some States are yet to formally initiate reconciliation with the Commission.
With the matter resolved, NAHCON is now shifting focus to preparations for the 2026 Hajj. The Commission emphasized the importance of early payment of Hajj fares, in line with the operational calendar of the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The Commission said timely remittance will ensure Nigeria secures essential services in Makkah, Madinah, and the Mashā’ir, safeguard Nigeria’s full participation in next year’s pilgrimage, and guarantee improved comfort and dignity for pilgrims.
NAHCON therefore called on State Muslim Pilgrims’ Welfare Boards, Agencies, Commissions, and Licensed Tour Operators to remit Hajj fares promptly to avoid last-minute challenges.